adminJOHOR BAHRU, Sept 10 (Bernama) — Yayasan Johor Corporation (Yayasan JCorp) is continuing its efforts to conserve the marine ecosystem by propagating and outplanting 300 coral fragments through its coral restoration programme in Pulau Aur, Mersing.
The three-day programme, held for the third consecutive year from Sept 4, brings the total number of coral fragments restored by Yayasan JCorp to 550 since the initiative was launched in 2023.
Yayasan JCorp chief executive officer Datuk Mizan Yahya said marine conservation required sustained commitment and collaboration among various parties to ensure the ecosystem remained protected.
“Every effort brings us one step closer to healthier reefs and richer biodiversity, while supporting the sustainability of marine life.
“This programme demonstrates that conservation efforts require collaboration among various parties, including strategic partners, volunteers and local communities,” he said in a statement today.
The programme, held in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia, focused on enhancing coral reef resilience, marine biodiversity and the sustainability of the aquatic ecosystem around Pulau Aur.
In addition to coral reef restoration, activities included seabed and beach clean-ups, as well as the removal of crown-of-thorns starfish, which can threaten coral reefs.
The programme also featured Pentas Seni Johor, beach games with the community, cultural exchange sessions and informal discussions, as well as the presentation of contributions to the island community.
Yayasan JCorp also conducted conservation awareness sessions and knowledge-sharing activities to encourage the local community to play an active role in protecting and monitoring the marine ecosystem.
The restoration efforts target a coral survival rate of 70 per cent after 12 months.
The coral restoration programme is among Yayasan JCorp’s initiatives under its environmental focus area, alongside mangrove restoration, seagrass conservation, river and coastal clean-ups, as well as biodiversity awareness campaigns and community-based ecotourism.
— BERNAMA
